Hopes Rise for Ceasefire in Gaza as Egypt Leads Mediation Efforts

Efforts to restore a ceasefire in Gaza have gained momentum as an Egyptian delegation arrived in Doha on Thursday to discuss pathways to reviving the truce. 

The renewed diplomatic push follows Israel’s resumption of airstrikes on Gaza, putting international focus on Egypt’s role in brokering peace.

According to two foreign diplomats familiar with the negotiations, Egypt previously proposed a framework aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for a phased truce. Under the proposal, five Israeli hostages would be released on the first day of the ceasefire, with an additional five freed every 7 to 10 days. The plan also includes the release of Israeli-American citizen Aidan Alexander on the first day, as reported by Israeli media.

Egypt’s Plan: A Path to De-Escalation:

The Egyptian proposal also calls for a withdrawal of Israeli forces from territories they occupied following the collapse of the previous ceasefire earlier this month. Key areas of concern include the Philadelphi Corridor (Salah al-Din Axis) and the Netzarim Corridor, both of which play a crucial role in the division and control of Gaza.

A significant aspect of Egypt’s plan is the negotiation of a second phase of the ceasefire. While Israel had previously agreed to this in earlier mediation efforts, it has so far avoided engaging in discussions on its implementation.

Previous Ceasefire and Current Challenges:

The last ceasefire agreement, reached in January through mediation by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, lasted 42 days. During that period, Hamas released 30 hostages alive, along with the remains of eight others. However, hostilities resumed after the agreement collapsed, leading to renewed violence and humanitarian concerns.

As diplomatic efforts intensify in Doha, regional and international stakeholders are closely monitoring the negotiations. Egypt’s mediation remains central to any potential breakthrough, with hopes that this renewed push could pave the way for a lasting resolution.